Sapodilla Wellness

Cortisol isn’t all bad—it’s what helps you jump out of bed in the morning and spring into action when needed. But when it goes rogue? That’s when we have a problem. Think sleepless nights, snack attacks, and feeling like a squirrel in a room full of nuts. So, how do we keep this gremlin from running the show? Let’s break it down with humor, heart, and a few life hacks.

1. Snack Like You Mean It

Cortisol loves to hijack your appetite, making you crave everything from cookies to carbs that don’t even have the decency to wave back at your waistline. Fight back with foods that stabilize your blood sugar—think whole grains, leafy greens, and good fats like avocados. Bonus points if you keep almonds handy for when the “hangry monster” strikes.

2. Sleep Like Your Job Depends On It

Cortisol loves a sleep-deprived brain. Why? Because a tired you is an easily stressed you. Create a bedtime routine so sacred even Netflix knows not to tempt you. Try dimming the lights, sipping herbal tea, and pretending your phone doesn’t exist after 9 p.m. Cortisol hates a well-rested human, so tuck in and win.

3. Laugh at Stress (Seriously, It Works)

Ever notice how everything feels less tragic after a good laugh? That’s because laughter lowers cortisol levels. Watch a funny movie, scroll through your favorite memes, or hang out with that one friend who makes you cry-laugh in public. Bonus: It’s free therapy.

4. Move It or Lose It

Exercise is like Kryptonite for cortisol. A brisk walk, yoga session, or impromptu dance party in your living room can help burn off excess stress hormones. Just don’t overdo it—running a marathon to escape your problems only tells cortisol to pack a suitcase and move in.

5. Meditate Without Overthinking It

Meditation doesn’t have to mean sitting cross-legged for hours while chanting “om.” (Though if that’s your jam, go for it!) Even a 5-minute breathing exercise can work wonders. Imagine inhaling calm and exhaling all the stress gremlins. Poof—gone.

6. Say No, and Mean It

One of cortisol’s favorite tricks is making you feel obligated to say “yes” to everything and everyone. Practice saying “no” like it’s a superpower. Example: “No, I cannot bake 200 cupcakes for tomorrow.” See? Stress reduced instantly.

7. Unplug Like Your Peace Depends On It

Cortisol is a sucker for doomscrolling and email overload. Give yourself permission to unplug. Set screen-free hours, mute notifications, and remind yourself that the world will survive without your immediate response to Janet’s email about spreadsheets.

The Bottom Line

Cortisol is like that overly enthusiastic coworker—it has its moments of usefulness, but unchecked, it can wreak havoc. By eating well, sleeping better, moving your body, and laughing at life’s absurdities, you can tame the Stress Gremlin and reclaim your peace.

So, next time cortisol tries to crash your party, just smile and say, “Not today, Gremlin. Not today.”

Read more about cortisol here